Wisdom teeth pain can be incredibly uncomfortable, making it hard to concentrate on anything else when it strikes. Fortunately, there are several proven strategies for quickly relieving the pain and discomfort associated with wisdom teeth. From over-the-counter pain relievers to home remedies, we’ll explore seven methods that can help you quickly find relief.
Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or throbbing pain, there are plenty of options to help soothe the soreness and prevent further complications. While you may need to experiment with a few different methods to find one that works best for you, with the right attention and care you’ll soon be back to your normal routine without the added inconvenience of wisdom tooth pain.
Common Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain
Wisdom teeth are the last of the adult teeth to develop and they can often cause pain and discomfort when they are trying to break through the gums. Because the jawbone is already full of teeth, there is little room for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly and they can become impacted, meaning they are stuck in the jawbone and unable to break through the gums.
This can cause pain, swelling, and even infection. In some cases, the wisdom teeth are too large for the jawbone, or come up at an angle, causing the surrounding teeth to become misaligned, leading to pain and further complications.
Benefits of Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
When it comes to wisdom tooth pain, over-the-counter pain relief is usually the first and most effective option to start with, helping to reduce swelling while offering fast pain relief.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen are especially effective. These medications work by blocking the production of certain molecules that cause inflammation and pain.
Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever as soon as you start feeling the pain associated with wisdom teeth can help reduce the symptoms before they become too severe. This type of pain relief can also be used in conjunction with other treatments to provide additional relief. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and talk to your chemist before taking any over-the-counter medications.
Home Remedies for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Aside from over-the-counter pain relievers, there are several home remedies that can be used to help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with wisdom teeth.
- Try rinsing your mouth with salt water several times a day which can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- You can also try applying a cold compress to the area around your wisdom teeth which can help reduce swelling and pain.
Herbal Remedies for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Herbal remedies are another popular option for reducing inflammation, pain, and swelling associated with wisdom teeth.
Some of the most popular herbal remedies for wisdom teeth include:
- Chamomile is a gentle herb that can be taken as a tea or applied topically as a compress to help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Lavender is also renowned for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and can be taken as a tea or used in aromatherapy.
- Peppermint is a calming herb that can be used topically as a paste or taken as a tea to reduce pain and swelling.
- Echinacea is another popular herb for reducing inflammation and pain and can be taken as a tea or supplement.
Alternative Treatments for Wisdom Teeth Pain
In addition to the strategies mentioned above, there are several alternative treatments that may be effective for relieving wisdom teeth pain.
- Acupuncture can help promote the flow of blood and oxygen to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain while also stimulating the release of endorphins which are natural painkillers, providing further relief from pain.
- Chiropractic care can help align the teeth and jaw, helping to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Massage therapy can also be effective in reducing pain and swelling.
- Hypnotherapy is another popular alternative treatment for wisdom teeth pain. It can help relax the mind and body, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Tips for Preventing Wisdom Teeth Pain
Aside from treating wisdom tooth pain when it occurs, there are several preventive measures that can help reduce the chance of your wisdom teeth causing issues later on.
One of the best ways to prevent pain is to maintain good oral hygiene. This involves brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and using mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and debris.
Regular dental checkups are also crucial in detecting any potential issues with your wisdom teeth before they become a problem. Your dentist will be able to conduct x-rays to examine any signs of impacted wisdom teeth and recommend whether you should have them removed.
Ultimately, having your wisdom teeth removed is the best way to prevent pain in the future!
When to See a Dentist
Prevention is the best remedy for wisdom teeth pain. Visit your dentist if you feel your wisdom teeth are erupting, and they will take an OPG X-ray and determine whether they need to be removed before things get worse.
If you are over 30 and haven’t discussed wisdom teeth with your dentist before, it’s a good idea to book a check-up and request an OPG X-ray to see if you have any wisdom teeth that are likely to cause you issues in the future.
Wisdom teeth pain usually comes without warning and if it is severe, the dentist will not be able to remove the teeth during an emergency dentist visit.
This is why having them removed is usually recommended at a younger age. The older you are, the more difficult the procedure will become, and the more complications you may end up having.
Final tips for wisdom teeth pain relief
Wisdom teeth pain can be mild to extremely painful, even debilitating for some people. However, there are options available to alleviate symptoms and pain associated with emerging wisdom teeth, from over-the-counter painkillers to natural remedies.
By experimenting with a few different methods you may find one that works well for you, allowing you to effectively manage the discomfort without the need for more comprehensive treatment.
Once again, don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable. If you get wisdom teeth pain once every few months, go and seek help from a dentist to avoid further complications by having them removed, this will relieve your wisdom teeth pain once and for all.
If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, or you are over 30 and haven’t spoken to a dentist about them yet, give us a call on (03) 9593-1811 or book a consultation with one of our dentists today.
